A reunion took place last week at a private luncheon held last week in the Rib Room, a former political haunt at he Royal Orleans Hotel in New Orleans.  The major Louisiana political  figures from the 70s gathered to reminisce and break bread.  And what an impressive group.  from left to right, former Kenner Mayor and Endymion captain Ed Munez, former New Orleans Mayor Moon Landrieu, yours truly, former New Orleans district attorney Harry Connick, former New Orleans Clerk of Court Dan Foley, Lt. Governor Jimmy Fitzmorris, Governor Edwin Edwards, New Orleans labor leader Pete Babin, and former Senator Mike O’Keefe.  If those walls could talk.

No, Mr. Mayor “” we won’t shut up about your misrule of the schools!

Daughter Campbell continues to stir up a hornet’s nest in taking on the Mayor of New York City. Mayor Bill de Blasio challenged Compel and her charter schools: “˜They need to figure out when to give it a rest.” So declared the Mayor on Thursday in response to a question about Success Academy Charter Schools’ decision to close its pre-K program rather than run it under city oversight.  Campbell immediately shot back to the Mayor: “As much as the mayor may wish that we rest, downshift our mission, be satisfied with less than our full effort in serving kids, it’s not going to happen.” To read all about the New York educational fight, Click Here.

Early summer means preparing for hurricane season if you live along the Gulf Coast. Well actually, concerns are much broader now following Hurricane Sandy. All coasts have exposure. So what do we do? Just sit back and wait for an oncoming storm? Or is there some preparedness that can be undertaken in advance? Check out my new column on how to spread the risk and give homeowners more protection. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Weekend Radio Guest Schedule to be posted Thursday afternoon.

Just after Familiar Evil, by Louisiana author Rannah Gray, won the Gold Medal at the 20th Annual Independent Publishers Awards in Chicago, it was announced that the National Indie Excellence Awards has named Familiar Evil the BEST NEW NON-FICTION AND BEST TRUE CRIME BOOK FOR 2016.

Familiar Evil was also featured in the New Title Showcase at Book Expo America, the leading book and author event for the North American book industry, held this year in Chicago. Written by Gray in collaboration with Mary Jane Marcantel and the British survivor known as Ethan, Familiar Evil is the chilling true story of the international search that revealed the dark past of Louisiana television host Scott Rogers. Published by The Lisburn Press, the book is available now by Clicking Here.

I have always regretted not learning to fly. I had ample opportunity, but always seem to be too busy. I did learn how to land an airplane, because, when I was in public life, I was in private planes every week. So I learned enough to set the plane down, but little more. I love the video below, because it shows how you can see America from the air, and what a great panorama of or country one can view from the air. Take a look at the video below.

It’s graduation time of year, with kids at many levels are attending graduation ceremonies. Do you remember who spoke at your graduation? Most readers do not. I decided, this week, to set out some advice to these new graduates who are hoping to lead a successful life. My thoughts are pretty simple. Take a look at my new column and see if you agree. You can read it now by Going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Our “Common Sense” weekend radio program is fast approaching, and we have a lively show planned for our listeners across the nation. Colonel Tony Deane has written an intense first person account of the pivotal battle of the Iraq War, the Battle of Ramadi. His book tells quite a story and is available by Clicking Here. We will also have some fun with one of the world’s funniest women, Negin Farsad. You will love her book, called “How to Make White People Laugh” available by Clicking Here. Finally, with bright summertime sun, we will talk about protecting your eyes and the type of sunglasses you should wear with Dr. Albert Pang from Dallas.  Check him out Here.  And much more this weekend. Check local listings for times and stations.

The battle over the “bathroom law” in North Carolina has reached fever pitch over the past few weeks.  The law aims to ban transgender folks from using the bathroom of the gender they identify with, but the state has gotten some major pushback from the Federal government and popular figures. Well, country music superstar Brad Paisley got on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” to say that he just doesn’t get what all the fuss is about.  Watch the video above to hear his catchy tune about the whole issue.

My longtime friend and political colleague in Louisiana Bobby Freeman passed away this week. He was a young 82, but died after suffering from an inoperable aneurysm. Bobby served as Louisiana’s Lt. Governor wihen I was Secretary of State. We campaigned together back in the 1980s, and remained close friends to the end. Bobby and I had lunch together just a few weeks ago. He was a credit to the Bayou State as Lt. Governor, and served in the legislature. We will miss you Bobby. Rest in Peace.

Voters think their congressman is completely out of touch, and congress has a lower favorability rating than does polygamy. Members of congress rant and rave about the cesspool mentality in Washington, then jump right into the mix and make it a hot tub. What should congress do to regain some semblance of respect and voter confidence? Come back home I say. Check out my new column now posed. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Weekend Radio Show Schedule to be posted Thursday afternoon.

“Without question, to me, the issue is education,” says daughter Campbell Brown in the video above. “Two out of three eighth graders in this country cannot read or do math at grade level. We are not preparing our kids for what the future holds.”

In the latest installment in a new weekly series from Slate, 92Y, and New America, we hear from Campbell””a former NBC News and CNN anchor, and co-founder of the education news site, The 74″”who offers her advice for the next president of the United States. Each Monday this election season, she will publish a short video in which a policy maker, writer, or thinker gives the next commander in chief their best ideas for how to handle the highest office in the land. You can follow her at www.campbvellbron.com.

Familiar Evil, by Louisiana author Rannah Gray and published by The Lisburn Press, has won top honors in the 2016 Independent Publisher Book Awards, or IPPY Awards, presented this year in Chicago. Familiar Evil was awarded the Gold Medal for first place in the True Crime category. The IPPY Awards are the world’s largest international book awards competition.

Familiar Evil is the chilling true story of the international search that exposed the dark past of television personality Scott Rogers. Mary Jane Marcantel, a key figure in the investigation, and the British survivor known as Ethan collaborated with Gray on the book.  The 20th anniversary IPPY Awards ceremony was held at the top of the Sears Tower overlooking the city of Chicago on the eve of Book Expo America, the leading book and author event for the North American book industry. Familiar Evil was featured in the New Title Showcase at the expo which was held this year in Chicago’s McCormick Place convention center.

Familiar Evil is available nationally for sale through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Million and at the book’s official website:  FamiliarEvil.com.  It is also available in all eBook formats in the US and the UK through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and iBooks by Apple.  A portion of the proceeds from the sale of Familiar Evil are donated
to programs that benefit survivors of child sex abuse.

Are we supposed to be politically correct about everything we do? Some people think so. Well there are issues involving race, gays, transgenders, praying in public, and even who can or cannot bake a cake. Everything we do these days has a “politically correct” connotation attached to it. Have we gone to far in America, or is there some middle ground to allow freedom of expression without offending others? Check out my new column to see what I think and to decide if you agree. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Great news on the radio front. I am pleased to have a new station that will begin carrying the Jim Brown “Common Sense” program beginning this weekend. We will welcome listeners hearing our program on WBCR 1470am in Alcoa, TN. Alcoa is part of the greater Knoxville metropolitan area, so the station will give our show a growing number of listeners. Hats off and a Shout Out to station general manager Harry Gotham for choosing our program.

We have a jammed packed radio program scheduled for this weekend and we sure hope you can join us. Lawyer Jacquelyn Clark (www.cowlesthompson.com) will help us explain this whole transgender issue that has dominated the news. Do you like to sing but having voice problems? Voice coach Gary Catona will offer his expert advice. (www.garycatona.com). And what about overdosing on legal prescription drugs? Is this a growing problem? Addiction center adviser John Dyben (www.originsrecovery.com) will join me to discuss.

And finally, time for a third party? Many think so. Robert Winger is publisher of Ballot Access News to give us his thoughts. (http://ballot-access.org.) So join us for a lively program. See you on the radio.

You can see about every kind of outfit down in the New Orleans French Quarter. I often broadcast my weekend radio program overlooking Jackson Square. Following the death of Prince, purple was seen everywhere. I’m shown with some lovely Crescent City ladies on an afternoon stroll all in purple. I hope you can make a visit sometime.

Some crimes are so vicious that there would certainly seem to be hatred involved. But how do you tell? How do you get into someone’s head to figure out just what they are thinking? Do we need to have a “thought police?” Take a look at my new column now posted to see if you really believe a “hate crime” designation is necessary in the criminal law. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

We are ready to go for our weekend radio show. Time to make some common sense. We start off the program with Adm. Tom Church, to talk about his popular book, “Fixing Washington 2016.” See more by Clicking Here. Then Howard Eisenberg, who turned 90 this year, will discuss his career as an award-winning author, playwright, songwriter, and a journalist. His new book, just published is called book called Adorable Scoundrels, a treasury of toddler poems for parents. See more HERE.

 And finally, can you eat normal foods and still loose weight? Food writer Audrey Johns thinks so and discusses her ideas in her book, LOSE WEIGHT BY EATING. See more HERE. So join us for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

There is really nothing like the sites and sounds you can hear in the French Quarter in the heart of New Orleans. Music is non-stop in Jackson Square. I can look out off my 3^rd floor balcony and be entertained into the wee hours. I was out for a morning stroll last weekend, and came across these lovely Crescent City Belles. I thought they might be dressed to remember Prince, but they told me this was just part of their costume look to cruise around the Vieux Carre. I’m glad to be a weekend native.

Election Day less than six months away? Have you made your choice yet? Let’s be honest here. The race has come down to Clinton or Trump. That’s right. Unless you want to make a protest vote and cast a ballot for a third party candidate. So you are going to just have to hold your nose and vote one way or the other. Yes, there are third party candidates, but no chance of any such aspirants being elected. How much of a mess is there right now? Check out my new column and see what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Weekend radio is close at hand, and we’ve a full pack schedule plan for her listeners. Prof. David Reynolds will be one of our guests to discuss taking Andrew Jackson off the $20 bill. He has written over 15 books, including “Walking Giant: America in the Age of Jackson.“ We will also touch on the death of Prince, and the problem with chronic pain in America today. Pain expert Cindy Perlin will talk about the rampant use of painkillers and her book, “The truth about Chronic Pain Treatments.” To see more of the book, Click Here. This and much more on our weekend radio show. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

A special video. Combining dance, art and theater, this visual dance act called “Another Kind Of Blue” brings something new and exciting to interpretive dance and video. Using a screen with projected imagery as their backdrop, Violet and Nino create the illusion of floating, flying and leaping from tall heights, when really they’re lying down. Using their bodies, props and the hands of two other performers to create their routine, halfway through it’s as if a door is opened to another world. It’s worth taking a look.

Can you just imagine how much former Louisiana Governor Huey Long would relish being alive today, and right in the mist of the presidential election? The Kingfish would no doubt show Donald Trump and Bernie sanders a few political tricks as to how to appeal to the masses, particularly those who are fed up with current government. Just how much are candidates like Trump and Sanders emulating the old Long style of slash and burn, take no prisoners kind of politics? Check out me new column and see what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Our weekend radio schedule is close at hand, and we have a lively program plan for our listeners. How about all these third-party candidates running for president? Why do they do it? Will have several potential candidates on the show. And how’s your health? American citizens seem to be getting less and less healthy. What’s the problem? We will talk about this and much more. So tune into the Common Sense radio program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

OK. OK. I know this is a political and radio show website, but hey. We have to have a little fun now and then. So what better way to loosen up a bit than to see a Ventriloquist with Live talking Dog ? Take a minute to watch below and get a laugh.

I’ve ben a big fan of the Fred Eaglesmith traveling music show for years.  Fred is a Canadian, but comes  to my home town of Baton Rouge once or twice a year to play at the Re3d Dragon Listening Room.  I’m always in that number.  Take a listen to Fred and his band below.

There is a big debate going on down in Louisiana, as well as other states in the country, about a requirement that all motorcycle enthusiasts must wear a helmet when they’re on a bike. Those who oppose wearing helmets carry the banner of “freedom of choice.” But just what does this mean? Freedom of choice for who? Are there losers as well as winners when you don’t wear a motorcycle helmet? You’re darn right. Check out my column where I put this whole problem and into perspective. But I’ll give you hint as to my opinion. Anyone who does not wear a helmet is little more than a.   Got you hooked, huh? You can read my new column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio guest schedule to be posted Friday morning.

Sure if you’re bored, and have nothing better to do, you can take a look at my give-and-take with BayouBuzz publisher Steve Sabludowsky about the recent run in by Donald Trump’s campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski,  who was arrested for grabbing the arm of a news reporter at a  Trump rally.  Much ado  about nothing? I sure think so. But you can listen to my analysis, and a detailed look at the video, by Clicking Below.

I love this confrontation between a young lady in a Starbucks, and Florida Gov. Rick Scott. Sure it’s funny, but the average voter just doesn’t have a way to express themselves to the political elite who run their lives anymore. It is s really amusing. And you know what? There’s nothing wrong with taking on these politicians. They all say the same things, and generally are quite boring. So three cheers for the young lady that stuck it to the governor. Watch the video below.

Are foster children being protected in Louisiana? That’s the focus of a new book (published by The Lisburn Press) called Familiar Evil. It charges that children supposedly under state care are allowed to b be put in unfit homes where child abuse takes place. And with little or no monitoring by the state of Louisiana? What the heck is going on? Check out my new column now posted. You will find it disturbing. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Our weekend radio program is shaping up well as the week progresses. What would Donald Trump do for and to our national economy? Are his ideas sound? We will discuss.   And how can small businesses compete with the big box stores? There are lots of ways. And finally, why is the national political system so out of whack? There’s got to be a better way. So be sure and tune in for the “Common Sense” weekend show. Check local listings for times and stations in hour part of the country. See you on the radio.

Poor ole’ Donald Trump. He says he got snookered down in Louisiana. Although he won the popular vote in the recent Republican presidential primary, the state party gave the majority of delegates to Senator Ted Cruz. Foul play hollered Trump, and for good reason. But is that just the way elections are handled down in the Bayou State? Check out my new column and see what I think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

The sparks will certainly fly on our weekend “Common Sense“ radio program this weekend. Jim will discuss scandals involving several of the Final Four teams, including Jim’s alma mater North Carolina. And how about Hillary Clinton’s $600 hair cut, that brought traffic to a halt in midtown Manhattan? Then there are Donald Trump’s incendiary comments this past week on abortion. Do they help him or hurt him? And our guest will be New York Times bestselling author Andrew Bacevick, who will discuss his new book, American’s War for the Greater Middle East. See more by Clicking Here. So turn in for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

My deal friend and former Senator Sonny Mouton passed away this week. Sonny took me under wing when I was a new Louisiana state senator back in 1971, and we have been close since then. He was a giant in Louisiana politics, and worked hard as a public problem solver. New governors, once elected, immediately would call on Sonny for counsel and advice. He actively supported me in all my statewide campaigns. I had the honor of attending his funeral in Lafayette this week, and joined so many others who knew and loved Sonny. He will be sorely missed.

Look at the photo showing some people walking to reach the final objective, to live in a European country. On the photo, there are 7 men and 1 woman. Notice that the woman is bare feet, accompanied by 3 children, and of the 3, she is carrying 2. None of the men are helping her. It is because in their culture the woman represents so little? Can  these particular individuals integrate into our societies and countries and respect our customs and traditions?  Tough questions for voters to discuss.

As Liza Minnelli sang in the hit show Cabaret, “money makes the world go round.” It certainly does in politics, particularly here in my home state of Louisiana. Campaign dollars are the key factor in candidates getting elected, and in the buying of influence by lobbyists.  Politicians spend way too much time raising money. The system is rotten at the state level and in Washington. Check out my new column that shows how out of whack the present system is, and what could be done about this growing problem. You can read it now by Clicking on the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Easter weekend radio shows are often re-runs, but not the “Common Sense” program. We have a full agenda planned for our listeners. Pastor John Stahl helps us begin the show with an Easter message about a different perspective of the tomb where Jesus Christ was buried. See his website and new book at Twitter @JustJESUSThem.  Then, with all the violence throughout the world, our travel expert Russell Hannon gives tips of how to travel safely. See more of Russell by Clicking Here. And finally, March Madness and some sports talk with Richard Sheubrooks, and see more by Clicking Here.  See you on the radio. Check local listings for times and stations.

Having gotten my start as a lawyer and a state senator in one of the most rural parts of America in Northeast Louisiana, and experienced the marvelous experience of attending a number of primarily African American churches, I learned that just about all Negro spirituals are written on the black notes of the piano. Probably the most famous on this slave scale was written by John Newton, who used to be the captain of a slave ship, and many believe he heard this melody that sounds very much like a West African sorrow chant. It’s just one of the most amazing melodies in all of human history.  Check out this wonderful  melody and history below.

Does anyone like a quitter? I don’t. If you are a die-hard LSU fan, you might not like my new column about the administration at LSU quitting, both in sports and in academics. Of course, all of us fail from time to time. But quitting? It’s a reflection of giving up on striving for doing or being one’s best. See if you agree with me and look at my new column now posted. You can read it by Clicking on the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Radio Program Schedule will be posted Thursday Afternoon.

This whole story of why the FBI is insisting on compelling Apple to create an entirely new system to break into any iPhone is complicated, and difficult for many to understand. Comedian John Oliver does a pretty good job of putting this import problem into an understandable perspective. You can read my perspective by Clicking Here. It’s well worth the time to view this video below.

It’s Apple vs the FBI, and it seems like public opinion has switched in a manor fight of privacy vs security. The FBI says the whole controversy is a simple request to open one iPhone, but Apple says the request is to create a whole new operating system. Shouldn’t the world’s most powerful government be able to break in to a simple iPhone? Check out my new column that takes a look at what a reasonable solution should be. You can read it now by Clicking on the Red Flashing Box, above, or by Clicking Here.

And take a listen to financial analyst Shelly Palmer simplify this serious problem below.

Our “Common Sense” Radio program is just a few days away, and we have a lively show scheduled for the weekend. Attorney Rob Crane Will join us to discuss the $55 million judgment sportscaster Erin Andrews received against a stalker and a hotel. Was that reasonable? Also, our old friend Alan Topol will talk about his new book, “The Italian Divide.“ See more by Clicking Here. And of course more of the pros and cons of Donald Trump. So tune in and check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

Maria Sharapova, one of the world’s all time great tennis players, admitted that she had erroneously taken an illegal drug for health reasons. She said she had been taking the drug mildronate for 10 years to address a number of health issues, But the drug was legal until just this year. I’ve been a follower and big fan of Maria for a number of years. She admitted her mistake and I hope she is able to keep playing.  To read more, Click Here.

Well if you’re a regular viewer of this website, you know my base of operations is down in the deepest of the deep Southern states. Now my nationally syndicated radio program and my weekly column are generally not a reflection of the South. But we cannot drop our heritage, can we? And there are certainly things that are said and done down here that are unique to our part of the country. Take a look at the video below of some of my favorite Southern gals, and their “very special” expressions. You’ll have some fun with it.

Everyone needs heroes to look up to, particularly when growing up. To many youngsters, sports figures serve as an inspiration. That was certainly true in my case. I had a number of heroes in a number of sports. But the athlete I have always most admired is LSU and NBA superstar Bob Pettit. A statute was unveiled recently to honor his marvelous athletic abilities in Baton Rouge. I look back and remember his accomplishments in this week’s column. You can read it now by Clicking on Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

On our radio program this weekend, Trump and Clinton continue to roll towards their party nominations. Former FBI agent Colleen Rowley will talk about FBI overreach. Bill Coleman will join us f rom Dallas to talk about freedom of speech and business owner’s rights. And old friend and financial analysis Jordon Goodman will help us figure out Donald Trump’s economic plans for the country. So join us for a lively show. See local listings for times and stations.

Remember all those political pundits who said if Trump gets elected president, they would move out of the country?  Look at the New York Daily News front page headlines following Super Tuesday election day.   Are you ready to start packing?

If you’re still trying to wrap your head around the inexplicable rise of Donald Trump, then Matthew Broderick and Nathan Lane might have just given us the most plausible explanation yet.

The actors appeared on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” on Sunday night in a sketch called “Trumped,” a 2016-themed spoof of their Broadway hit “The Producers.” Instead of theater producers, Lane’s Max Bialystock and Broderick’s Leo Bloom are scheming, cynical political consultants. And rather than trying to to orchestrate a Broadway flop for financial gain, their plot involves backing a sure-to-lose presidential candidate to pocket campaign contributions from little old ladies. .. For their plans to work, the duo need “the worst candidate in history … a real trainwreck. A schmuck, a putz, a grade-A., world-class, gold-plated nincompoop.”

Their chosen candidate is none other than Donald Trump.  “He won’t last the week!” Lane declares after seeing him on television. They’re soon eating their words. Check out the funny video below.

Way down yonder in Louisiana, the creative talent continues to thrive. Musicians, artists, writers, and athletes: The cream of the crop comes from the Bayou State. So why is the politics so out of whack, unpredictable, and so dysfunctional? The state is dead broke, and has been for years. The state’s credit rating was just downgraded, so things continue to get worse. What happened? Take a look at my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

We are all set for a lively weekend radio program. We begin with Dr. Paul Coleman on who has a better mental health, Republicans or Democrats? See his new book, “Finding Peace when your Heart is in Pieces,” by Clicking Here. Then Jan Marshall joins us to tell how she uses humor to assist in healing, and you can read about her new book, “Dancin’ Schmancin’ with the Stars” by Clicking Here.  And finally, who are the book makers putting their money on for President?  Paul Krishnamurty is a political consultant and professional gambler who  will give us his thoughts. Check him out by Clicking Here. So join us for a lively program. See you on the radio.

Way down in Louisiana, the deepest of the deep southern states, a new Louisiana Governor is fighting to keep his head above the water. There is unanimous agreement that previous Gov. Bobby Jindal created one heckuva mess. Now it’s up to John Bel Edwards to try his best in cleaning it all up. But it’s a big job. The state is broke. Dead broke! My concern is that the new governor is all over the map, and doesn’t have a real game plan confected. He needs to quickly get his new act together, and, I talk about this in my new column now posted. Take a look by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Our weekend radio program will broadcast live from St. John in the Virgin Islands. Quite a contrast from the below zero weather we broadcast from in New York last week. We will talk about the death of Justice Scalia, mandatory terms for judges and the future of the Supreme Court with Prof. David Garrow from the University of Pittsburgh law school. We will follow up on the same subject with law professor Adam Winkler from UCLA. And finally, what effect does music have on politicians?  James Vincent, founder of Keeping Music Alive, leads this conversation. So tune in for a lively show. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

Political correctness seems to be all the range as certain areas of the nation, both north and south, want to rewrite our national history. Flags coming down. Confederate statutes? Got to go. Even ole’ Christopher Columbus is under assault by some who want to do away with national Columbus Day. So what’s a reasonable approach? I talk about it in my new column now posted. Take a look by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Sundays Radio Weekend is shaping up well, with the review of big events that took place this past week. The Super Bowl, political primaries in Iowa and New Hampshire, Mardi Gras, Sunday Valentine Day, and much more. Author Bill Muckler will join us to discus the presidential debates and his new book, “20/20: A Clear Vision for America.” See more by Clicking Here. And John Horvat will bring in religion and politics with a discussion of his book,  Return to Order, by Clicking Here. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio!

Well, I hope you had a pleasant Mardi Gras. That is, if you live in the south, and some Midwestern cities that are adopting the annual Fat Tuesday tradition. I spent Mardi Gras day in the heart of the French Quarter in downtown New Orleans with a  number family and friends. If you have never been, it’s well worth the trip to see the greatest free show on earth.  There will be another early Mardi Gras next year on Tuesday, February 28. Mark it on your calendar and try to come. You can check out some of my photos of all the fun we had in New Orleans this past Tuesday.

And then came all the cleaning up beginning at midnight.

Ah, what could’ve been in the deepest of the deep southern states certainly that could have had the first presidential primary in America. And can you imagine? All the candidates and busloads of the press crisscrossing the state spending not just millions, but hundreds of millions of dollars. A huge economic bonanza for the Bayou State. But because of petty political ambitions by selfish politicians, it wasn’t to be. Louisiana passed, and gave up the bountiful benefits of being the first state in the nation to hold a presidential primary. You can read all about what the state missed in my new column now posted. Go to the Red Flashing Box above, or Click Here.

It’s Mardi Gras weekend and the “Common Sense” show will be broadcast live from the French Quarter in the heart of New Orleans. It’s simply the greatest free show on earth and we will have some lively and colorful commentary. Several guests will join us. Dr. James Forsythe will lead a discussion o the value of medical marijuana. (www.drforsythe.com.) Then Dr. Bill Thomas will discuss why there is nothing wrong with growing old, and that aging is merely an extended third phase of life. See www.changingaging.org. And are you ready for the Superbowl? Professor Dom Carisit will help us figure out why advertisers spend up to $ 5million for a 30 second ad. So join us by checking your local listings for times and stations.

I wanted to take some time this week on my syndicated radio show to remember back. To many of us, this was the week that, according to the lyrics in Don McLean’s famous song, “¦ the infamous “day the music died”. Fifty-seven years ago on February 3^rd, the great Buddy Holly died in a terrible plane crash. It was an early tragedy in rock music, but it sure wasn’t the last. Buddy was a Texas boy who changed the world of music for all of us. He died with to other music icons of the 60s, Richie Valens and J.P. Richardson (The Big Bopper). Just a few years later came Glenn Frey who formed The Eagles. I’ve loved this group for many years and always reminds me to never give up living care free life. Glenn died last week at 67. Check out belowWaylon Jennings talking about the death of Holly and others.

We are approaching he weekend before Fat Tuesday and this is the prime time to visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras. This is the weekend when Bacchus and Endymion, two of the biggest parades of the season, roll down the streets of New Orleans. The streets are packed all day Saturday and Sunday with parade goers. I’ve grown up around the Mardi Gras traditions, and we look forward to broadcasting our “Common Sense show” from the Big Easy this coming Sunday. If you’ve never been there, you missed the greatest free show on earth. Below is a video to give you some idea what it’s all about. Happy Mardi Gras!

It would be an understatement to say that my home state of Louisiana is in a real financial mess. Because of irresponsible spending under the previous governor and legislature, the Bayou State has to fill a financial hole this year in the coming five months of $750 million, And next year of almost $2 billion. But does it? Does the state really have to spend that much money? That’s the focus of my new column this week. Take a look and see what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio Program weekend schedule is set and we hope you will join us for a lively show. We begin with a discussion about end of life options with ER Doctor Kevin Haselhorst.  Then former Navy Seal Chris Sajnog discusses how to protect your family in a time of some many crimes and so many guns available. See his website by Clicking here.

Then Dr. David Linden talks about the importance of touch and his new book “Touch: The Science of Hand, Heart and Mind. See more by Clicking Here. And finally, Peter Neill, founder of the World Ocean Observatory, tells us about how important our future is tied to future ocean discovery. See more by Clicking Here. And read about his new book by Clicking Here.  So turn in and check local listings or times and stations. See you on the radio.

You just don’t see entertainers like James Cagney and Bob Hope any more.  Humor,  talent galore, dancing, singing…they could do it all.  Take a look at these multi-talented guys below.

Sometimes in the course of history, a smaller regional event can have worldwide consequences. The Battle of New Orleans ended the War of 1812 two hundred years ago. But what might have happened if the ragtag bunch of Louisiana frontiersman, had not beaten the British? What would have happened if the United States continued to be part of the British Commonwealth? Could a major course of history change? Check out my column this week where I make such a case. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

We are soon to go on the radio and a lively program is planned for our listeners this weekend. Should African American actors boycott the Academy Awards? Social commentator Lisa Durden thinks so and will join us to discuss. By the way, I disagree. Then our friend John Batty, a psychiatric nurse, will talk about his heroine experiences saving lives during Hurricane Katrina. See his book by Clicking here.   Finally, attorney Scott Palmer (www.scottpalmer.com) will help us what in the heck an “affluenza defense” is for a drunk driver. So be sure and tune in.  Check local listings for times and stations.

Daughter and former CNN anchor Campbell Brown, whose organization, the Partnership for Educational Justice, is interviewed by Mangu-Ward, that took place at the National Summit on Educational Excellence in Wasington, D.C., Brown also discussed her decision to leave journalism for the “glamorous world” of ed reform, her response to critics who object to her tactic of turning to the courts to shape policy, and the personal attacks she’s endured since entering a field in which ad hominem attacks are the norm.

“I don’t particularly care because, you know, sticks and stones.”

We are all set for a lively radio program set for weekend and we hope you will plan to join us. Along with reviewing the week’s news, we will discuss workplace issues. As an employer, just what time do you have to allow for religions observances during the workday? Labor and employment law expert Brian Farrington will join us to discuss, and you can find all about his work and company by Clicking Here.

And we are always concerned about your health. David Letterman claims that Dr. Louis Aronne saved his life. Dr. Aronne became a fixture on The Letterman Show after diagnosing Letterman’s heart problems, but that did not deter him from his life’s mission: helping his patients – and all Americans – to lose weight. He will also be our guest to discuss his new book, THE CHANGE YOUR BIOLOGY DIET: The Proven Program for Lifelong Weight Loss. Find out more by Clicking Here.  

Finally, Jordan E. Goodman is “America’s Money Answers Man” and a nationally recognized expert on personal finance. He is a regular guest on numerous radio and television call-in shows across the country, answering questions on personal financial topics. He appears frequently on The View, Fox News Network, Fox Business Network, CNN, CNBC and CBS evening news. we will see you on the radio. We will talk about the good and bad of falling oil prices.  Check out more on Jordan by Clicking Here. So tune in and check local listings for times and stations.  See you on the radio.

My home state of Louisiana has a new governor, and things kicked off at the state capital this week. I’ve been to just about every inauguration going back to 1972. I was sworn in on the state capitol steps on five different occasions. As an “over the hill” former politician, it’s nice to go back from time to time and see what all the young folks are doing to hopefully straighten our state. Needless to say, they have a big job ahead. I’m pictured below at the swearing in of new members of the House of Representatives.

 Louisiana’s newly elected governor began his inaugural day on a high note with religious services at St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Baton Rouge. But before he could even begin his inaugural address, things got dicey. The Louisiana House of Representatives rejected his hand picked candidate for Speaker. Is this an indication of how his term as the state’s chief executive will succeed?  Check out my new column by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Folks down in the Bayou State just finished a knockdown, drag out gubernatorial election. Most voters want to breathe a sigh of relief, and have a have a little break in the election cycle. But that’s not to be. It’s presidential election year including a long list of local and statewide elections to be considered. In my column this week, I raise the question of why we have so many elections in Louisiana.  Also, the state really missed a great opportunity to be the first primary state in the nation. What a waste. You can read all about it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Weekend Radio Schedule to be posted Friday morning!

With our syndicated radio program, I have the opportunity of traveling throughout the country a good bit. So it’s fun to pick up  local humor about different states. Here are a few of my favorites to lighten things up this week.

Louisiana

What differentiates a zoo in Louisiana from other zoos? The Louisiana zoo has a description of the animal on the front of the cage, along with a recipe.

MississippiӬ

How do you know when you’re staying in a Mississippi hotel? When you call the front desk and say, “I’ve gotta leak in my sink,” and the person at the front desk says, “Go ahead.”

New Hampshire

The state motto is “Live Free or Die,” which appears on license plates made by prisoners.

What does a football coach have to do with a teacher? Quite a lot in my opinion. We give the coach full responsibility, pay him well, and expect results. Why don’t we do the same thing with our teachers? That’s the focus of my new column this week. Our approach to elementary and secondary education is the same today as it was 100 years ago. The rest of the industrialized world outranks us in results they are getting from their kids. So what can we do about it? I have a few ideas. Check out my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Because of a family conflict, our weekend radio program will be a rerun, highlighting some of the top guess from the year 2015. We will cover some new health, ideas, a little politics, and remember those who passed away during this previous year. Then, next week, would we will be back in action with our normal full schedule. Happy New Year.

We are bringing the year 2015 to an end, and for many of us, it’s probably a pretty good idea. Quite frankly, the world is pretty screwed up right now. We can only hope that 2016 will be a lot better at bringing peace to the Middle East. And what a presidential election were about to have. Personally, I hope the level of debate is much higher than what we’ve seen so far, particularly among the Republican candidates. But whatever happens, we will be alive and kicking in 2016 with my weekly columns, our weekly radio shows, and having some fun right here on my website. To you and your family, a very Happy New Year.

Well I certainly hope 2015 was a good year for you. I guess we can always do better. My family and I hope you are enjoying the holiday season. If you’re fortunate enough like me to have so many kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews, grand nieces and nephews, and assorted others, it certainly keeps us busy. I hope you read this week’s column, where I write about the importance of the holiday season, and how I’ve traditionally spent my New Year’s Eve, and my hopes for the coming year. You can read the column by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

We are winding down to the New Year with the full agenda on or we can radio show. Ready to make some New Year’s predictions? Our longtime friend, the Great Kreskin joins us to offer you insight into what will happen in 2016. He’s written a great new book about the future called “In Real Time,” and you can read all about it by Clicking Here.

Then we will talk with Dr. Mike Smalley, one of America’s most sought after ministers who has written extensively about religion. Our subject on the weekend show will be wide millennials are less religious and older Americans. See his books and articles by Clicking Here.  Also, Dr. Rob Silverman, the American Chiropractic Associations’ (ACA) Sports Chiropractor of the Year, is available to discuss the concerning issue of concussions that is the subject of the new Will Smith movie by the same name. So turn in for a lively show. Check local listings for times and stations.

It’s the holiday season and if you need something to help you get in the holiday spirit, this will hit you right in the feels. Everyone that has seen this has cried so get some tissues. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta have a new video where underprivileged kids can either get a present for themselves, or give something to their parents.  Every kid in the video decides to give something to their parents. Take a look below to appreciate the Christmas Season.

O.K.! We know Louisiana colleges and universities are crying for more money to operate. The current governor and legislature have cut academic budgets to the bone. Yes, spend more on higher education. But should taxpayers not want to be sure that they are getting their money’s worth? Has is all this money being spent? And what kind of accountability is built in? Not enough, I argue in this week’s column. Check out what demands should be made on higher education. You can read the column now by Clicking Here, or by going to the Red Flashing Box above.

Radio weekend will cover the gamut of news. With national politics so much on the front burner, are you interested in getting involved? Consultant Jonathan Maher joins us to reviews four way people can get involved and affect positive gains. You can check him and his several books by Clicking Here. Then will talk with Jim Naureckas, editor of the media watch group FAIR’s magazine Extra! I want his take on the rampant criticism after Tuesday’s GOP debate on CNN over the incinerary questions that were asked. His website  is available by Clicking Here.

And finally, Just who is ISIS, how was it formed, and why has it bee so successful as a terrorist organization?WILLIAM MCCANTS directs the project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World at the Brookings Instituter and has written extensively about ISIS; in his new book, THE ISIS APOCALYPSE: The History, Strategy, and Doomsday Vision of the Islamic State.  You can read more by Clicking Here.  See you on the radio.  Check local listings for times and stations.

Daughter Campbell is back on the journalistic warpath with an admonition to the press to quit giving Donald Teump so much coverage.  Here’s what she is saying: “To my former TV colleagues: Please stop. Just for one week, don’t say his name. As many have already said, no presidential candidate in history has gotten this much free airtime.”  To read her latest column that appeared all over the country, Click Here.

I’ll bet you did not know what a great cook my wife Gladys is. Here’s just how good she is. She is joined with her twin Wister Gloria on national television cooking a Turducken. A what you say? Well if you want to know what a Turducken is and how o cook it, jut check out the video from the TV show below.

Two of my favorite Austin, Texas singers are Sam Baker & Carrie Elkin. They have performed together for a number of years, and I had the chance to hear them recently at the Red Dragon Listening Room in Baton Rouge. The have a folksy, irreverent, humorous, and delightful way of conveying how much fun you can have doing ordinary things. Here’s a great love song below that applies to young and old alike. Don’t miss them if they come your way.

Louisiana’s supposed flagship university is struggling. Really struggling. And there is plenty of fault to go around, including the past leadership at LSU. And it’s been a sad fall from grace. Some old-timers can remember back when LSU was the premier university in the South. Governor Huey Long made the financial support of LSU his pet priority. But no longer. I write about LSU’s demise and the need for a major comeback in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

At this time of year, with winter and snow close at hand, I like to post one of my favorite videos.  These Russian kids are not fighting or protesting.  They are enjoying a popular American song and dancing up a storm.  I wish we had more spontaneous events like this here at home.

The mass of fleeing refugees is swamping Europe, building frustrations and backlash in many parts of the world including right here in the U.S.A.   Many people see their way of life changing right before their eyes, and not for the good of their respective countries. Look at the video below and see if you agree with these concerns. Then take the M and M test also below to see just how many M and Ms you would take to eat.

What a week for LSU football fans. Coach Les Miles is out, no, he’s in. There was a revolving door of rumors. There is no doubt the Tigers need a coach to adapt and change. But should Miles have been fired? And how much is too much to pay any coach? Check out my analysis in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio Weekend had a busy program schedule lined up, with much news to cover as the year winds down. Pulitzer prize winner Jon Meacham will join us to discuss his new book, Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush. Meacham paints an intimate and surprising portrait of an intensely private man who led the nation through tumultuous times. You can read more about the book by Clicking Here.

We will also have investigative journalist Rannah Gray to discuss her investigation of an international child pedophile. You can see the details about her harrowing story below. So be sure and tune in. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

The most recent publication of The Lisburn Press has been released this week, and is raising serious questions about the reliability of child protection all over the America. Familiar Evil is a true story about a TV personality who operated as a child pedophile internationally. Author Rannah Gray stumbled onto the story by accident, and was shocked over what she found out concerning the TV predator. This international criminal case builds to an explosive conclusion, and is well worth the read. You can find out much more by Clicking Here.

No, that’s not her father trying to stir up some mischief.  That’s the title of a new article on the state of American education that is creating quite a stir.  It initially appeared in newsmagazine The Weekly Standard, but has been picked up by news outlets all over the nation.  You can read the whole article and see why Campbell is making such a big splash by Clicking Here,

Are you a Jerry Jeff Walker fan? I’ve been a fan of the Texas country outlaw singer for some 35 years. And would you believe? I was once the president of the Louisiana chapter of the Jerry Jeff fan club. He put on one heck of a concert here in Baton Rouge this past Friday night and I was in that number. Jerry Jeff and I reminisced a bit before the show. Check out on of my favorites below.

We always are told about the winners, but you just cannot ignore the losers, can you? And in the recent Louisiana gubernatorial election, there were some big-time losers who really fell flat. I list a few of them in my new column. Obviously, Senator David Vitter leads the list. But take a look at some of the others who fell by the wayside. You can read the column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

This weekend’s post Thanksgiving “Common Sense” program is shaping up well with a number of topics to discuss. Amanda Gutterman, Editorial Director at Slant News, will discuss just what do millennials think about terrorism & the Paris attacks. Then “America’s Money Answers Man,” Jordan Goodman, a nationally recognized expert on personal finance, will discuss all of the financial/economic implications of the Paris bombing. Finally, should retail stores close on Thanksgiving? We will discuss with Krish Dhanam, a workplace culture expert. So be sure and tune in.  Check local listings for times and stations.  See you on the radio!

Daughter Campbell has been traveling the country talking about educational reform.Campbell Brown encouraged students to work hard, take risks and follow their passions at Linda E. McMahon’s lecture series, “Women Can Have It All,” recently at the Forum in the Frank and Marisa Martire Business & Communications Center at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut. You can read about her speech by Clicking Here.  And to read more of Campbell’s multiple activities, Click Here.

Columnist and freedom fighter John Whitehead has been a guest on my syndicated radio program, and is one of the nations leading voices on government intrusion into our basic freedoms and right to privacy. Check out his engaging and cncerning vido below.

Well, the fat lady finally sang to finish off the quixotic campaign of Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal as he undertook a futile effort to run for president. The guy really never had a chance. This is not the year of a governor on the presidential circuit. And Jindal had lost virtually all his political support back home. I take a close look at the rise and fall of one of Louisiana’s most promising governors. He could’ve done so much, get he accomplished so little. You can read my column now by either going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Weekend Radio is close at hand. We hope you will be able to join us for a lively program. First up are repercussions from the Paris Terrorist attacks. Amanda Gutterman, editorial director of Slant Magazine will join me to discuss just what millennials think about these attacks and how engaged they are. See more by Clicking Here.

Then we will talk with America’s money answer man, Jordan Goodman, a nationally recognized expert in personal finance. I want to know what affect the recent terrorist attacks are having on our economic and financial future. Finally, what was your response over the closing by many businesses on Thanksgiving Day? I think it’s a great idea. Let those employees stay home with their families. Workplace culture expert Krish Dhanam will join us to discuss. So tune in.